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International

Journal of Bioprinting

RESEARCH ARTICLE
Painting bio: A vector-based method for precise

G-code generation across scales in biofabrication

Zan Lamberger 1 id , Camilla Mussoni 1 id , Nathaly Chicaiza Cabezas 1 id ,
Florian Heck , Sarah Zwingelberg 2 id , Sven Heilig 1 id , Taufiq Ahmad 1 id ,
1
Jürgen Groll 1 id , and Gregor Lang *
1 id
1 Department for Functional Materials in Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital of Würzburg,
Würzburg, Germany
2 Laboratory for Experimental Ophthalmology I, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital
Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany

Abstract
This study introduces a standardized approach to generating and assembling G-code
for biofabrication, ensuring compatibility and convergence across diverse machines
and scales. By using vector-based drawing software, such as Adobe Illustrator, shapes
are designed as paths and converted into modular G-code blocks (subroutines). This
vector-based approach allows for the straightforward design of complex structures,
such as organic shapes, by simply drawing them to scale, avoiding the need for labor-
intensive construction. These blocks are assembled into a final script with a modified
version of Notepad++ that enhances code segmentation and provides real-time
visualization. Unlike many commercial slicers, this method offers precise control over

*Corresponding author: the print path—a critical advantage in biofabrication, where anisotropic structures
Gregor Lang are essential for directed cell growth and orientation-specific mechanical properties
(gregor.lang@uni-wuerzburg.de) needed in biomimetic tissue design. The method’s versatility is demonstrated
Citation: Lamberger Z, Mussoni across techniques from micro-scale applications, such as melt electrowriting, to
C, Cabezas NC, et al. Painting bio: macro-scale approaches like bioprinting, freeform printing, and in-gel printing. This
A vector-based method for precise process streamlines code generation, allowing both simple and complex shapes to
G-code generation across scales in
biofabrication. be efficiently produced. Although paths are drawn in 2D, stacking layers enables
Int J Bioprint. 2025;11(4):209-224. 3D constructs. The method’s standardized, relative G-code format—compatible
doi: 10.36922/ijb.6239 with most devices—supports easy transfer across machines with clearly marked,
Received: November 18, 2024 machine-specific segments, creating a unified and adaptable codebase for a range
Revised: December 11, 2024 of fabrication scales and techniques.
Accepted: December 12, 2024
Published Online: December 12,
2024
Keywords: Bioprinting; Freeform; Fused deposition modeling; G-code;
Copyright: © 2024 Author(s). Melt electrowriting
This is an Open Access article
distributed under the terms of the
Creative Commons Attribution
License, permitting distribution,
and reproduction in any medium, 1. Introduction
provided the original work is
properly cited. Biofabrication plays a crucial role in the development of in vitro test systems, tissue
Publisher’s Note: AccScience models, and organs by utilizing machines to automate the production processes. These
Publishing remains neutral with machines, which include a wide range of computer numerical control (CNC)-based
regard to jurisdictional claims in 1
published maps and institutional devices, are central to biofabrication, enabling applications from 2D processes such as
2
affiliations. laser cutting to complex 3D techniques like melt electrowriting (MEW), fused filament

Volume 11 Issue 4 (2024) 209 doi: 10.36922/ijb.6239